Light Duty Commuting Aircraft (??)

[onthebeach]

OK guys, here is the project, let's hear your input:

Looking to identify the aircraft which will do a weekly 400 NM (one way) day/night commute to job location, plenty of airports nearby on each end, most economically.

Looking for single engine, non-retractable, used recip, FAR 91 operation, most likely will be wholly owned by one party.

As far as powerplant, simpler is better, i.e., big carbureted engine preferable to more complicated and sophisticated plant.

Need IFR but not known ice; have flexibility to cancel if wx is too bad, and enough experience to do so.

Four place airplane wanted, will be just one pilot 90% of the time, occasionally with one pax, but need the four place for baggage & contingencies.

Time enroute is not the big constraint.
Operating economy and dispatch reliability, in that order, are the two highest concerns.

Let's hear it, what's the best choice?

 

[erj-145mech]

Piper Dakota (PA-28-236)or Cessna Skylane (182)would be my choices, given the limitations imposed. Your decision is whether you prefer a high or low wing configuration.

 

[ackattacker]

If you can swing the initial purchase price (about $200k), a used Cirrus SR20 will do 155kts on 10gph, and should be fairly trouble free.

 

[Waldom]

You are describing a Cessna 182. Don't be afraid of an old one. The first model year was 1956.

 

[Swass]

I would go with a 182 as well.

 

[Swass]

This Maule would fit the bill nicely:

http://www.controller.com/listings/...858.htm?guid=A09F2DAE6A0E44FEA32C24D590D3531D

 

[propsarebest]

This Maule would fit the bill nicely:

http://www.controller.com/listings/...858.htm?guid=A09F2DAE6A0E44FEA32C24D590D3531D

And Maule's are BADASS!

It is one of the best "for fun" planes you can buy. Just make sure you get the patroller doors option.

 

[navigator72]

I vote for a C182 also

 

[Patriot328]

RV-7 or 8. About $100k loaded and 200mph on 10gph.

Edited: this one is claiming 185 on 8.5gph...

http://www.barnstormers.com/ad_manager/ad_detail.php?ID=212198


And on edit, I see you wanted a 4-place plane... guess the -7 and -8 are out..

 

[eaglefly]

Your requirements almost clearly state a 160 or 180 H.P. four-seat fixed gear.

Choices are :

Cessna 172

Piper Warrior
Piper Cherokee 180
Piper Archer

Beech Sundowner

Since your load requirements 90% of the time are one or two, full fuel can be used on almost all your flights with these aircraft and the "muscle" of the more powerful (and very thirsty) 182 or 235/Dakota seems unnecessary.

You're better off putting money in safety systems on more modestly powered aircraft, such as back-up electric attitude indicators, GPS/Nexrad and traffic alert, then spending that on more expensive aircraft that will only save you a half-hour (or less) on most flights.

Maintenance will be quite a bit more expensive on the thirstier birds TOO.

Of all, I'd say the Archer is probably best for your mission.